Daring to Fight. Victoria Mininger

or professional counselor. The author is not responsible for any specific health needs that may require medical supervision and is not liable for any damages or negative consequences from any treatment, action, application, or preparation, to any person reading or following the information in this book. References are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsement of any websites or other sources. Readers should be aware that the websites listed in this book may change.

      Some names and identifying details have been changed to protect the privacy of individuals.

      Morgan James is a proud partner of Habitat for Humanity Peninsula and Greater Williamsburg. Partners in building since 2006.

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      MorganJamesPublishing.com/giving-back

      To Brian, Michaela, Anna, Rachel and Kaitlyn

      You believed in me, even when I couldn’t.

      Contents

       Acknowledgments

       Foreword

       Chapter 1: Victoria’s Story

       Into the Darkness

       You Are Not Alone

       Own Your Own Story

       Chapter 2: What is Depression?

       Causes of Depression

       A Word About Suicide

       Chapter 3: God’s Word and Depression

       The Power and Importance of God’s Word in Fighting Depression

       Even Kings Are Shaken

       Chapter 4: When Others Fail Us

       How to Keep Walking Even When You Feel Alone

       Your Worth and a 20-dollar Bill

       Believing in My Worth Again

       Chapter 5: Practical Steps Towards Wholeness

       Medical

       Professional Counseling

       Self-Care

       My Daily Self-care Today

       But I Just Can’t

       Setting Daily Habits

       Chapter 6: Help for the Hard Days

       Shifting My Focus

       Replacing Lies with Truth

       Letting Go of What I Can’t Control

       Atmosphere is Everything

       Staying Consistent with Daily Habits

       Keep Leaning into the Discomfort of Healing

       The Value of Pain

       Chapter 7: Re-engaging in Life

       The Power of Community

       Sharing Your Story

       Re-engaging as a Leader

       Chapter 8: Today and Beyond

       Serving Outside Ourselves

       Avoiding the Comparison Trap

       The Best Next Step

       Final Words

       About the Author

      Acknowledgments

      Writing a book is a daunting task. Doing so with your heart wide open is another matter entirely. To my husband, Brian, who saw this book before it was even written. Who believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself. You lifted me up when I was lying shattered on the ground and loved me anyways. For my girls who loved me at my best and made me smile at my worst, for you I am grateful. It was for each of you that I dared to fight for brighter days.

      For my counselor, Lynn, who helped me put on my fighting gloves and coached me as I stepped into the ring. Every time I didn’t think I could go on, you were there to help me fight another day. God brought you into my life at just the right time. For that I am thankful.

      To my mom and dad, who taught me how to fight forward and dig in with grit until I made it to the other side.

      To my mom-in-law who was a prayer warrior on my behalf. Indeed, the prayers of a righteous person avail much.

      To those who coached me along the way as I got back up on my feet, who championed me